remembering those 70s British tv adverts

Jun 28, 2023

The 70s were a golden era for British television, and one of the most memorable aspects of this time were the iconic adverts that graced our screens. From catchy jingles to memorable slogans, these adverts have left a lasting impression on many of us. Let's take a trip down memory lane and remember some of the most beloved 70s British TV adverts.

The Smash Martians

Who could forget the lovable Smash Martians? These quirky extraterrestrial characters became instant stars with their catchphrase, "For mash, get Smash!" The adverts for instant mashed potato were a huge hit, and the Martians quickly became a beloved part of British pop culture.

Smash Martians

Cadbury's Flake

The Cadbury's Flake adverts of the 70s were pure indulgence. Set against picturesque landscapes, these adverts featured women sensually enjoying a Flake chocolate bar. The iconic tagline, "Only the crumbliest, flakiest chocolate, tastes like chocolate never tasted before," made it impossible to resist the temptation.

Cadbury's Flake

PG Tips Chimpanzees

Tea time was never the same after the introduction of the PG Tips chimpanzees. These adorable animated characters brought humor and charm to the adverts for the popular tea brand. From their mischievous antics to their catchy jingle, "Have a cup of tea, have a cup of tea," the PG Tips chimps became a household favorite.

PG Tips Chimpanzees

Heineken "Refreshes the Parts Other Beers Cannot Reach"

The Heineken adverts of the 70s were renowned for their clever tagline, "Heineken refreshes the parts other beers cannot reach." These humorous commercials often featured people in unusual situations, all attributed to the refreshing qualities of Heineken beer. The tagline became so popular that it is still associated with the brand today.

Heineken Ad

PG Tips "Ape Tea"

Another memorable advert from PG Tips featured a live-action chimpanzee named Mr. Shifter. Dressed in a suit and tie, Mr. Shifter would engage in humorous conversations with his owner, demonstrating the intelligence and wit of the PG Tips tea-drinking experience. This advert captured the hearts of viewers and cemented PG Tips as a beloved brand.

PG Tips Ape Tea

Gold Blend "Will They, Won't They?"

The Gold Blend coffee adverts of the 70s were famous for their ongoing romantic storyline. Viewers were captivated by the will-they-won't-they relationship between the characters played by Anthony Head and Sharon Maughan. These adverts kept us on the edge of our seats, waiting to see if the couple would finally get together.

Gold Blend Ad

Rowntree's Fruit Pastilles

Rowntree's Fruit Pastilles adverts were a burst of fruity fun. These colorful commercials featured a group of animated fruits playing musical instruments and singing about the deliciousness of Fruit Pastilles. The catchy jingle, "Rowntree's Fruit Pastilles, they're a chewy lot," made these adverts impossible to forget.

Rowntree's Fruit Pastilles

Lucozade "Lucozade Aids Recovery"

The Lucozade adverts of the 70s promoted the energy-boosting properties of the drink. These commercials often featured athletes or individuals in need of a pick-me-up, showcasing how Lucozade could aid in their recovery. The tagline, "Lucozade aids recovery," became synonymous with the brand and its revitalizing benefits.

Lucozade Ad

These are just a few examples of the unforgettable adverts that graced our screens in the 70s. They not only entertained us but also left a lasting impact on popular culture. Even decades later, we can still recall the slogans, jingles, and characters that made these adverts so special. They truly were a testament to the creativity and innovation of British advertising during that era.